n.
Pronunciation: ə - ' bi-l ə -t ē
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural -ties
Etymology: Middle English abilite, from Anglo-French, from Latin habilitat-, habilitas, from habilis apt, skillful ― more at ABLE
Date: 14th century
1 a : the quality or state of being able < ability of the soil to hold water> especially : physical, mental, or legal power to perform b : competence in doing : SKILL
2 : natural aptitude or acquired proficiency <children whose abilities warrant higher education>